In Memoriam: Dr. Robert H. Sheppard

The University of Toronto is remembering Professor Robert H. Sheppard, an influential endocrinologist and Faculty leader. Sheppard died peacefully following a brief illness on October 2 at his home in Cobourg, Ontario surrounded by his family.

Sheppard earned his MD from the University of Toronto in 1948, which was followed by further studies at Harvard. He became one of the first endocrinologists in Canada. A gifted and compassionate physician, deeply admired by patients and colleagues alike, he worked for many years at Toronto Western Hospital and Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre. He joined the Faculty of Medicine and went on serve as Associate Dean, Postgraduate Medicine from 1977 to 1988. He also served as the inaugural Director of the Office of International Relations in the Faculty from 1988 to 1989 and was the inaugural Chair of the Canadian Post-MD Education Registry (CAPER). He is remembered as a mentor to generations of young health professionals.

After retirement, Sheppard devoted himself to volunteering with Horizons of Friendship, the outreach committee at Trinity United Church and Amnesty International, where he co-chaired the Cobourg/Port Hope regional chapter for many years.

He is survived by his wife Norah, his six daughters and their partners, as well as his grandchildren, great grandchildren, and his many friends.

A small family service has been held. Friends are welcome to drop by 521 Lakeshore Road, Cobourg on Friday, October 7 anytime between 1:00 and 3:00 pm. Condolences are being received online. The University of Toronto will lower its flag to half-staff on Wednesday October 12, 2016 in Sheppard's honour.